Xenus cinereus
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Mass
~80 g
Habitat
Grasslands and meadows
Diet
Fish and aquatic animals
How to recognize it
The Terek Sandpiper stands out with its long, slightly upcurved bill and lively manner. It is not a shy shorebird, and when it is around, its quick movements often catch the eye first.
It runs fast, changes direction sharply, and gives short whistling calls in flight. During courtship, the male trembles his wings and body in a noisy display, and when alarmed it gives a sharp "vet'-vet'-vet'".
It breeds near freshwater on marshy banks, wet flats, river floodplains, and meadowy floodlands. It feeds on insects and their larvae, and on migration it also takes mollusks, crustaceans, and other small prey; in winter it moves to southern seacoasts.
Quick Facts
The Terek Sandpiper stands out with its long, slightly upcurved bill and lively manner. It is not a shy shorebird, and when it is around, its quick movements often catch the eye first.
It runs fast, changes direction sharply, and gives short whistling calls in flight. During courtship, the male trembles his wings and body in a noisy display, and when alarmed it gives a sharp "vet'-vet'-vet'".
It breeds near freshwater on marshy banks, wet flats, river floodplains, and meadowy floodlands. It feeds on insects and their larvae, and on migration it also takes mollusks, crustaceans, and other small prey; in winter it moves to southern seacoasts.
